First and foremost, get them in shape. That means daily stretching and squatting exercises to strengthen their hamstrings, lower legs and Achilles tendons. They need to train like serious athletes. |
I'm hoping publicity about cheerleader injuries will lead to better athletic training programs for girls who participate in this very competitive sport. Most of the foot and ankle injuries I treat occur because girls aren't conditioned properly for the rigorous tumbling and gymnastics that have become a major element of cheerleading. |
This type of prevention is unhealthy and very risky because it weakens the ankles and makes the athlete more susceptible to off-field sprains and strains. |